Self sedation and suggestion system

ABSTRACT

A computerized system and method for modifying a pre-existing hypnotic script into a custom-made script for use in self-sedation by a user is disclosed. In one sense, the system can collect an input from a user specifying a desired time length and automatically adjust the playback length to accommodate the user by snippet selection and replacement from a collection of snippets stored in a memory. Snippet selection may be based on a variety of factors, which include a user&#39;s particular style preferences determined through an indirect analysis.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/946,194, filed on Feb. 28, 2014, and is acontinuation of U.S. Non-Provisional Patent application Ser. No.14/488,143, filed on Sep. 16, 2014, the contents of which are fullyincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to the field of hypnosis andpsycho-physiological conditioning, and more specifically, to systems andmethods for enabling patients or clients to create and utilizecustomized hypnotic or otherwise suggestive electronic media forplayback, such as through a computerized application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Hypnosis and related forms of non-pharmaceutical sedation are well knownand frequently implemented tools used to assist people in achieving avariety of objectives, such as, for example, to reduce fear or anxiety,to increase focus on a specific task, to curb an undesirable behavior,or to help control other emotions. In a traditional scenario, atherapist will work with a patient in a one on one setting to help thepatient focus in order to access the patient's subconscious and providesuggestions relating to achievement of a desired goal. Ideally, thepatient is able to access the benefits of the therapy once the therapysession is over, and at the time(s) when the goal is to be achieved. Forexample, a first patient might need help fighting the urge to have acigarette. During therapy, suggestions are implanted that cause thepatient to relate the taste of cigarettes with something bad, such thatthe later thought of them is less appealing. In another example, asecond patient may experience high anxiety each time they visit thedentist. During therapy, suggestions are implanted to help associate thewaiting room of the dentist's office with a sense of calm. However,people that seek hypnotic or related non-pharmaceutical sedationtreatments (referred to herein in a non-limiting manner as “patients”)often cannot access the suggestions at the proper time, or the anxietiesor impulses relating to the goal may overcome the strength of thesuggestion. In these cases, patients can benefit from a more timelydelivery of the suggestion, so that it is received at the time when mostneeded.

It has been recognized that therapy sessions may be pre-recorded andplayed back on demand. For example, U.S. Publ. No. 2013/0236865 entitled“Systems and Methods for Modifying Human Behavior Using an AudioRecording During Sleep” teaches the playback of a recorded therapysession during sleep to help reinforce the therapeutic message. However,the session is generated manually by the therapist, and cannot bemodified or tailored for a specific need by the patient upon demand.U.S. Pat. No. 6,057,846 entitled “Virtual Reality PsychophysiologicalConditioning Medium teaches a “virtual reality device” used to induce astate of meditation or hypnosis upon demand. But the message is stillpre-determined by the therapist and not adjustable by the user. Suchmessages may not fit the immediate need of the patient, or may not fitthe time window that the patient has available.

Somewhat more flexibility and user control is suggested by U.S. Pat. No.6,565,504 entitled “Method and Apparatus to Create and Induce aSelf-Created Hypnosis,” which teaches an “interactive computer device”that presents a “custom hypnosis script” to induce hypnosis and makebehavioral suggestions. According to the invention, a user submitsresponses to pre-set questions that form gaps in an already existing orpre-assembled script, e.g., “pre-programmed textual material.” A scriptis assembled based on these inputs and sent back to the user. While thisadds slightly more flexibility, the user is still stuck with the formalnature of the pre-set questions, and it is really the therapist that iscreating the script using the responses. The length of the script oraudio file is pre-established by the therapist or the program written atthe request of the therapist. Patients (users) must be careful not toinduce a state of hypnosis during which they will be needed to performcomplex activities. If the script lasts 30 minutes, the patient musthave at least that much time to dedicate to listening to the script inthe prior art systems. However, a patient in a dental waiting room, forexample, may have only a few minutes before their scheduled appointment.They need a quick, tailored solution available to help ease theiranxiety.

What is needed is a software solution that provides superior flexibilityto the user of the hypnosis script, and provides them a solution thatdoes not rely on the input or control of a therapist in situations wherethat is not practical or possible. The patient should be able toestablish the length of the script, and it can be assembled(dynamically, if necessary) to accommodate that time window.Furthermore, options and selections are needed that can allow a user tofully tailor the script to their purpose, rather than simply providinganswers to pre-set questions. An improved solution would involve trulytailored inputs, e.g., where the user can provide material that can beplaced within the script for compilation with other content that is thenautomatically assembled into a customized script for playback.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises a system and method for automaticallycompiling a personalized media file that can be used to assist in goalachievement through non-pharmaceutical sedation. According to aparticular embodiment, the invention comprises a computer applicationthat presents a user interface for allowing a user to interface with theprogram and set up a personally tailored script. The application mayprovide for audio recording, such as of the user's voice, for purposesof receiving a tailored message to be synchronized with pre-recordedmaterial. The patient may proscribe a time window or specific timelength that the script to be generated should last. Based on these andpossibly other inputs, the application generates a truly tailored,suggestive script for playback by the patient at the patient'sdiscretion. The script may then be electrically stored in a data memoryfor later use.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a computer applicationthat presents a user interface for allowing a user to interface with theprogram and set up a personally tailored script. The application mayprovide for submission of a sound bite captured in, for example, a .AVIfile or other sort of sound file, such as a snippet of a song, a verbalmessage spoken in a particular tone of voice, etc. The term “snippet” isused within this disclosure to generally refer to any digitally-capturedshort audio sound bite, whether it be music (a music snippet), spokenword (e.g., a message snippet), any other auditory sound, or evenrecorded silence. As used herein, a snippet may be many seconds or evena minute long, but is often only a few seconds or even a fraction of asecond in playback length (play time). Snippets are used to create atailored message to be synchronized in order to form a script. A snippetmay be voice, music, or even a video component. It may be pre-recordedand stored in a database for use by the system, or it may beuser-provided. A user snippet could be a recording of the user's voiceproviding a message component such as a reminder, text provided by theuser and converted into a snippet by the system, or some pre-existingmedia file clip provided by the user and not within the systemcollection.

As used herein, the term “script” is a complete electronic media file(typically an audio file, but it may have a video component) that willbe several minutes long, and is the output of the system. The patientmay proscribe a time window or specific time length that the script tobe generated should last. Based on these and possibly other inputs, theapplication generates a truly tailored suggestive script for playback bythe patient at the patient's discretion. The script may then be storedin a memory for later use.

In still another embodiment, the invention comprises a computerapplication that presents a user interface for allowing a user tointerface with the application to set up a self-designed script. Theapplication solicits input from the patient by asking indirect questionsabout the patient's interests, goals, and other characteristics. Insteadof placing direct feedback from the patient into the script, theapplication uses responses to the indirect questions and interpretsthose responses using pre-programmed analytical guidelines to selectspecific pre-programmed content based on the user responses. In thismanner, the application automatically selects the content such that itwill be best suited for (and delivered in the most suitable manner to)the patient. The content is then used to generate a truly tailoredsuggestive script for playback by the patient at the patient'sdiscretion. The script may then be electronically stored in a datamemory for later use.

In some variations of the above-described embodiments or otherembodiments, the computer application may be able to dynamically adjustthe length of a pre-recorded personally tailored script. For example, ifthe patient originally requested that the script be 8 minutes long, butnow knows that they have only 4 minutes before an event is to takeplace, the user could request that the application trim components ofthe script such that it completes in 4 minutes. In this manner, thepatient is not in a compromised mental state at the time when the eventis to occur, but rather is alert and fortified with the script'smessage.

Thus, the invention provides a new and useful system and method forautomatically assembling a tailored hypnotic or therapeutic message foruse by patients at the time of (or just prior to) facing a challenge orattempting to achieve a goal. While certain embodiments are referencedabove, other embodiments, systems, methods, features, and advantages ofthe present invention will be, or will become, apparent to one havingordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures anddetailed description. In some cases, embodiments may incorporate one ormore of the features from the above-referenced embodiments. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages included within this description, be within the scope of thepresent invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention can be better understood with reference to thefollowing figures.

FIG. 1 depicts aspects of a mobile device serving as a general purposecomputer for facilitating aspects of the invention.

FIG. 2 depicts contents of a memory component of the mobile device ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary graphical user interface of a self sedationand suggestion system application, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing process steps of the self sedation andsuggestion system application of FIG. 3, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart showing other process steps of the self sedationand suggestion system application of FIG. 3, according to certainembodiments.

FIG. 6 depicts a preferences screen of the self sedation and suggestionsystem application, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 7 depicts a screen for gathering input for use in selection anddelivery of indirect suggestions, according to certain embodiments ofthe self sedation and suggestion system application.

FIG. 8 depicts a first script setup screen of the self sedation andsuggestion system application, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 9 depicts second script setup screen of the self sedation andsuggestion system application, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 10 depicts a reminder recording screen used to record audio for usein a new script of the self sedation and suggestion system applicationof FIG. 1, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 11 depicts a script sampling screen for validating new scripts inthe self sedation and suggestion system application of FIG. 1, accordingto certain embodiments.

FIG. 12 depicts a script directory interface that allows users to selectfrom among scripts that have been created by the user or the systemusing the invention described herein.

FIG. 13 depicts an interface screen of the application of FIG. 1 showingplayback, and offering the user an opportunity to extend or truncateplayback from its stored length.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The description that follows describes, illustrates and exemplifies oneor more particular embodiments of the present invention in accordancewith its principles. This description is not provided to limit theinvention to the embodiments described herein, but rather to explain andteach the principles of the invention in such a way as to enable one ofordinary skill in the art to understand these principles and, with thatunderstanding, be able to apply to practice not only the embodimentsdescribed herein, but also other embodiments that may come to mind inaccordance with these principles. The scope of the present invention isintended to cover all such embodiments that may fall within the scope ofthe appended claims, either literally or under the doctrine ofequivalents.

It should be noted that in the description and drawings, like orsubstantially similar elements or steps may be labeled with the samereference numerals. However, sometimes these elements or steps may belabeled with differing numbers, such as, for example, in cases wheresuch labeling facilitates a more clear description. Such labeling anddrawing practices do not necessarily implicate an underlying substantivepurpose. As stated above, the present specification is intended to betaken as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles ofthe present invention as taught herein and understood to one of ordinaryskill in the art.

The present invention relates to a software application, and itsassociated functionality. While the invention will always require a userinterface of some sort (e.g., inputs and outputs), and access to amemory and processor to operate the application and underlying system,the invention can be practiced using different hardware scenarios. Forexample, the application could be stored in a memory at a remote serveror otherwise operate through the “cloud” in a distributed networksystem. In this case, the user would merely have the interface whichwould receive all commands and executions from a remote processor. Inother scenarios, the application and all associated data in memory couldbe stored on a single hardware device in the possession of the user. Instill other scenarios, a user could have a device, such as a mobilesmartphone, that comprises the user interface, a memory, and aprocessor, but is in contact with a remote server that has access toadditional data stored in a central memory.

Though the application described herein can operate in any such hardwareconfiguration, it is explained herein as used in association with amobile device (such as a smart phone or tablet) so that a user canaccess the software wherever needed. Though the invention is explainedusing mobile user device 140 as an exemplary device, it will beunderstood that use of the system need not be on such a device and thespecific type of user device used does not limit the scope of theclaimed invention. For example, the mobile device could be a smartwatch, GOOGLE GLASSES, or some other such wearable device.

Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of certain aspects of a mobiledevice 140 is provided. This exemplary mobile device 140 includes aninteractive hardware portion 204 and a computer portion 206. Theinteractive hardware portion 204 can include one or more of a touchscreen, a keyboard, a stylus, a joystick, a microphone and the like,which can be arranged in various manners and have different shapeswithout changing the spirit of the interaction of the hardware portion204 with the computer portion 206. The touch screen can be a liquiddisplay crystal (LCD), display screen, a plasma screen, a light emittingdiode (LED), or any other screen capable of displaying text and images.

The computer portion 206 includes an input/output (I/O) portion 208, acentral processing unit (CPU) portion 210 (i.e., a microprocessor), anda memory 212. The CPU portion 210 can be any computer-processing unitfrom a singular microchip to extensive microchip configurations. Thememory portion 212 can include, without limitation, any one or acombination of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory(RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)) and nonvolatile memory elements(e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, CDROM, etc.). Moreover, the memory portion212 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and/or other types ofstorage media, and can have a distributed architecture where variouscomponents are situated remote from one another, but are still accessedby CPU portion 210. The interactive hardware portion 204 is coupled tothe I/O portion 208 such that a command entered by a user or customerthrough the interactive hardware portion 204 will be forwarded to theI/O portion 208, to the processor portion 210 and then to memory portion212. The input/output portion 208 may provide, for example, a keyboardfor text input, a digital recording device for capturing music or voiceinput, cursors, touch screens, etc. It may also include speakers, audioports, LCD screens, etc., for output to the user.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a schematic diagram of the memory portion 212of FIG. 1 is shown. The memory portion 212 can include or store adatabase 314, executable programs 300, 326, and 324, and an operatingsystem 322. The database 314 can store data related to prior use of theself sedation and suggestion system application 300 by a user, such as,for example, the user's username, password, preferences, saved scripts,or other data as discussed below. The executable programs include theself sedation and suggestion system application 300, a touch screeninterface application 326, and a wireless network communication softwareapplication 324 such as a common browser like Internet Explorer. Variousother executable programs may also be stored in memory 212 that areunrelated to the present invention. Verification data reader application320 may be a sub-code segment or part of the OMS application component318, or may be a separate, callable application residing independentlyin memory 212.

When the mobile device 140 is in operation, the processor 210 isconfigured to execute software stored within the memory 212 tocommunicate data to and from memory 212 and to generally controloperations of mobile device 140 pursuant to the software. The selfsedation and suggestion system application 300 and the operating system322, in whole or in part but typically the latter, are read by theprocessor 210, perhaps buffered within the processor 210, and thenexecuted. When the hypnosis application 300 is implemented in software,it can be stored on any computer readable medium for use by or inconnection with any computer related system or method. The self sedationand suggestion system application 300 can be embodied in anycomputer-readable medium for use by or in connection with an instructionexecution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system,processor-containing system, or other system that can fetch theinstructions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or deviceand execute the instructions.

In the context of this document, a “computer-readable medium” can be anymeans that can store, communicate, propagate, or transport the programfor use by or in connection with the instruction execution system,apparatus, or device. The computer readable medium can be for example,but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic,infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagationmedium. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of thecomputer-readable medium would include the following: an electricalconnection (electronic) having one or more wires, a portable computerdiskette (magnetic), a random access memory (RAM) (electronic), aread-only memory (ROM) (electronic), an erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EPROM, EEPROM, or Flash memory) (electronic), an optical fiber(optical), and a portable compact disc read-only memory (CDROM)(optical). In another embodiment, where the self sedation and suggestionsystem application 300 is implemented in hardware, it can be implementedwith any, or a combination of, the following technologies, which areeach well known in the art: a discrete logic circuit(s) having logicgates for implementing logic functions upon data signals, an applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC) having appropriate combinationallogic gates, a programmable gate array(s) (PGA), a field programmablegate array (FPGA), etc.

Before proceeding to a discussion of the function of the self sedationand suggestion system application 300, it will be understood that theapplication is designed to function as a stand-alone application thatdoes not require external network access to operate. Initially, theapplication 300 must be loaded onto the mobile device 140, such as, forexample, by downloading the application 300 from a network. However,once downloaded, the application can be launched and can functionwithout remotely-accessed information. However, it will also beunderstood that users may access additional content, such aspre-recorded reminders, images (still pictures or scrolling video),background music, or full scripts, as will be further discussed below,by connecting to the cloud or to a remote server where such additionalcontent may be acquired for use with the application 300.

Turning to FIG. 3, a user of the mobile device 140 has elected to launchself sedation and suggestion system application 300 and has arrived at awelcome screen 150. It will be understood that the display screens ofthe illustrated embodiment are non-limiting in their screen design,layout, or naming of particular options or selections. Rather, it is thefunctionality of the application and interaction with the user throughthe interface screens that defines the invention. The welcome screen mayoffer information or advertising such as advertising text 151,instructions, disclaimers or warnings such as instructional text 152,and a start or sign in execution such as sign in button 153. Though asign-in feature is not necessary in all embodiments, it allows theapplication 300 to access material specific to the user (whether presentin memory 212 on device 140 or remotely via network communication from aremote server). This material is then used by the application to callupon information saved from past sessions with the user, as describedbelow. In the illustrated embodiment, if a user has never usedapplication 300, they will not have a password and will be prompted forstartup account information.

FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate exemplary flow charts that walk through certainfunctional steps of operation of application 300. Both figures start atstep 10 from the sign-in screen (such as that of FIG. 3). FIG. 4 focuseson a scenario where a user opts to create a new script, while FIG. 5focuses on a scenario where a user selects from a pre-existing orpre-assembled script. Exemplary screen shots showing interfaces that auser might experience as they step through the application will bediscussed concurrently with the flow charts.

From the sign in screen, the flow of FIG. 4 moves to Step 12 where auser opts to create a new, customized script. The user already havinglogged in, application 300 checks to see whether the user has anypre-set preferences on file (Step 13). Though a user may diverge fromtheir preferences, these are features of a script that a user typicallyprefers regardless of the purpose of a particular script, the time theuser has available, or other aspects that may vary more frequently. Ifpreferences exist, flow moves to Step 20 and the preferences are adoptedautomatically. If they do not exist, the user is prompted to enter themat Step 14. This may launch a new screen, such as preferences screen 160shown in FIG. 6. Here, preferences are entered via, for example, dropdown option boxes 162 for script characteristics such as narrator voice,screen display and style. In some cases, a sample button 163 will beprovided for users to help select their preferences. For example,several voices may be pre-loaded in the system application 300 and givennames such as Cindy, Joanne, or Robert. Each might use a differentpitch, accent, or even volume. A user may want no screen display at all,in which case they would select <none> as an option. However, they maywant some type of calming visual effect to assist with them reaching thedesired state of focused attention. Such visual effects can also besampled, in which case the screen will temporarily change and thenrevert to the preference selection.

In the case of style, a user may opt for the system application toselect the best style of script presentation, or may select a style fromamong pre-set options (such as, e.g., <direct formal>). Generally, priorart systems were designed for use by trained therapists who couldanalyze patient responses and make proper style selections based onthose responses. If a system places that responsibility in the hands ofthe patient, the patient is likely not going to have the training tomake the proper selection. Most users will not understand the differentstyle possibilities and which to choose from. For example, a personmight believe they like “straight talk” and being told somethingdirectly in a strict subject, predicate format. However, that may not bethe style description that most conforms to their individual needs andpreferences. Because the proper style varies based on severalpersonality characteristics of the user, the present invention offers astyle analysis module 171 that helps determine the proper style fordelivery of the script. In other words, it removes the need for the useror patient to have professional training or understanding inneurolinguistic customization.

Assuming the user requests the system to select the style, the module171 launches and produces a series of question and answer screens suchas style analysis screen 170. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7,this screen queries a user to rate certain statements that attempt todescribe facts or characteristics about the user. The answers toquestions of this variety typically do not change for a given user fromone situation to another. For purposes of this application, suchquestions are referred to as situation independent questions. The module171 may cycle through several such screens, and statements may bepresented in a pre-set order, or may be dynamically selected or formedby the module 171 based on responses to prior questions. While FIG. 7features statements, the style analysis module could also presentquestions, and could include example presentation snippets. For example,the module might ask a user to rate how favorable a particular snippetis that, when selected, plays back a short segment of a script thatdescribes a scene in a particular manner. In this manner, the module 171can perform an automatic sensory selection for the user. Based on theresponses, the module selects a particular style most appropriate forthe user and stores it in the preferences for that user.

Returning to FIG. 4, a user may save their preferences on preferencesscreen 160 (Step 16) by selecting button 165 and flow proceeds to Step20. If they have requested that the system select the style (Step 17),the system first proceeds to style analysis at Step 18, as discussedabove, and then stores the result and proceeds to Step 20. Ordinarily,though a user may change preferences, they will not request that thesystem re-evaluate their style again. Accordingly, the style selection(if system selected) may be assigned a name that the user can recognizeand use as a default preference selection. The selected preferences willbe used by the system application 300 as inputs in generating atailored, customized script, as discussed below.

At Step 20, the system application 300 gathers information from the userabout the script that is to be created. Unlike preference information,the data collected at Step 20 is likely to vary even for a particularuser from one use to the next. A sample script setup screen 180 such asmight be used in association with step 20 is shown in FIG. 8. Thequestions 181, 182 and 183 shown in FIG. 8 are unique to the user'sparticular situation at that time (or at some future time and placewhere the user expects to be using the script being generated). It willbe understood that these are merely exemplary questions, and that othersrelating to a unique situation could be used. These may be referred toas situation dependent questions. By answering these questions, the userprovides additional inputs used by the system application to generatethe personalized script. For example, say a user wants to create ascript to help them deal with back pain prior to visiting with aprospective client. They are already in the proper mental state, butthey want to help remove the pain from their mind to help them focus.This would be the goal they input into the system. Options might beselected such as “Pain,” “Wait Rm,” and “Relaxed” to help theapplication build in appropriate messages, tones, music, and otherscript features.

Next, at Step 22, the user proceeds to script setup screen 190. It willbe understood that the setup screens such as screens 180 and 190 mayvary and may be broken up into more or less input screens to accomplishthe task of gathering the desired input for the application to generatethe script. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9, the applicationasks the user for a desired length of the script at time entry 191.While the length may not be exactly the length of time selected, theapplication 300 will target this length and choose script components soas to deliver the desired message in a meaningful manner, while allowingfor proper introduction and reorientation. For example, the total scriptplayback will be within, say, a minute of the desired length. As thoseskilled in the art will appreciate, an effective script must generallyinclude an introduction, a message portion, and a reorientation portion.The length and content of the introduction will depend on the experienceof the user, and the time available. The general purpose of theintroduction is simply to initiate the session, to provide anexplanation of what is forthcoming in the script, and to providedirections for entering a proper state to receive the message and laterto remove oneself from that state. For example, it might include asimple counting routine, or a more elaborate description of levels offocused attention. The introduction will also include certain triggersto help facilitate reorientation. Once the introduction is complete, thescript delivers the message portion of the script, which may includesub-parts, one or more reminders and suggestions towards achieving adesired goal using different types of metaphors, and may be short orlong. After the message is effectively delivered, the script concludeswith a reorientation portion that helps gently bring the user back to afull state of awareness.

Because a script must generally have these three components, it must beof a certain length to be effective. However, as users become moreaccustomed to a script, or to use of the sedation and suggestion systemgenerally, they may be able to achieve their goals with a shorterintroduction, and to return to full awareness with less reorientation.On the other hand, they may wish to fill longer periods of timeremaining in the desired state of focused attention. Accordingly, asdescribed below, the length of a script may be altered by the user evenafter its initial creation. However, originally, a target length isselected based on factors such as the amount of time a user hasavailable to listen to the script and the receptiveness (and experience)the user has with reaching the desired state of focused attention.

Also at Step 22 and on Screen 190, a user may elect to insert“favorites” from the menu at selection box 192. These “favorites” wouldbe stored in a user profile, and would correspond to specific snippets,or collections of snippets that comprise a message component that theuser has identified from a different script in a previous session. Auser could select stop and start points in a script (using the interfaceshown in FIG. 13, for example) to identify a portion as a “favorite” andsupply it a name of the user's preference. This “favorite” would then beavailable through Screen 9 at box 192 for automatic insertion by thesystem into the new script being developed.

Once the user has entered the desired length of their script and anyfavorites, Screen 190 gives a user a chance to alter their preferences.Recall that, if preferences were already loaded at Step 13, the userwould immediately move to Step 20 (FIG. 4). However, for any number ofreasons, the user may, in a particular instance, wish to divert from oneor more of their present preferences without permanently changing them.At Step 23 of FIG. 4, the user gets this chance, for example, byselecting “yes” at preference buttons 194 on FIG. 9. If “yes” isselected, the application 300 proceeds to Step 24 (FIG. 4) where changesto the present preferences are taken using a screen similar to that ofFIG. 6.

Finally, at Step 25, Screen 190 provides an opportunity for a user toinsert reminders at reminder selection box 196. Reminders are componentsof the message to be delivered in between the introduction and thereorientation. How they are delivered will depend on other inputs, suchas, for example, the style. Reminders may be pre-existing or may be usercreated. They may also be pulled from reminders that the user hascreated and saved in the past. For example, the reminder “smoking” maycomprise a pre-set message that a user has created to help them quitsmoking, or may use such a reminder that the system already contained.Thus, the user either selects from a pre-existing reminder at Step 28 oropts to create a new one at Step 26.

FIG. 10 depicts a reminder creation screen 410 that is used to recordnew reminders. Here, Application 300 has a record and playback featurethat allows a user to speak a new reminder into the mobile device 140(using, for example, and input/output microphone). The reminder is givena unique name in box 412, and then controls 414 are manipulated torecord and play back the reminder. Once the user is happy with the newlyrecorded reminder, it is saved and will appear as an option in thereminder selection box 196 in future uses. Notably, reminders will berecorded in a user's voice instead of the voice selected in preferences.However, because the reminder is delivered during a state of focusedattention, and because a user is typically accustomed to hearing his orher own voice, this is less concerning. However, in some embodiments,Application 300 may utilize a separate module to translate the user'sspoken message to text, and then convert the text back into script to beread by the selected voice. In still other embodiments, the user couldprovide a text string by typing the reminder in to a text box, whichcould then be converted to a sound file by the Application 300. Allowingfor these alternate features requires a large repository of snippet .AVIor other sound files by the recorded voice, and thus, may benefit from aremote call to a server with a larger, centralized storage capability.

At this point in the process of FIG. 4, according to the illustratedembodiment, the Application 300 has all of the inputs required togenerate the customized script. Thus, at Step 30, the Applicationproceeds to generate the script using the inputs. This step uses ascript generation engine that compiles a media file of (or approximatelyof) the desired script length using a variety of snippets (mini-files)stored in, for example, database 314 of FIG. 2 on the mobile device 140.In some cases, the snippets may be many seconds or even several minuteslong. For example, typically the beginning part of the message (theinitial relaxation instructions) does not vary significantly oncecertain options are selected. If a user selects a standard theme and aparticular voice, for example, there may be little need to vary thiscomponent of the script. However, answers to other questions and inputsin setting up the script will call for higher levels of variation whereshorter snippets of a few to several seconds or less may be used. Forexample, a shorter snippet and a longer snippet may both convey the samemessage component, but one may be selected in lieu of the other so as tocomply with the user's requested playback time length. As used herein,“play time” or “playback time” is the amount of time it takes for thefile in question to be listened to at its intended pace.

The collection of snippets can be logically organized in the database314 by the characteristics they are designed to address, such as, forexample, pain or anxiety management. They may also be recorded indifferent ways so as to present according to the proper style for theindividual user. Not only does Application 300 select voice/messagesnippets, background or transition music/sound snippets are alsoselected and synthesized together (including overlaid so that they playsimultaneously) with the voice/message snippets by Application 300 atStep 30 to create the customized script. In addition, user snippets canbe inserted into the script by the generation engine where appropriate.

Selected reminders will be inserted within the message portion of thescript at effective locations based on programming directives of theApplication supplied, for example, by a seasoned therapist. In thismanner, critical elements of script formation are not left in the handsof the user, but yet the user has ultimate control over the messagingand the general content. The target time length of the script is also afactor in snippet selection and synthesis by the Application, so as toattain a total script length at or near the target, insuring a properamount of introduction and reorientation. Any visual component of thescript, such as those offered as a sample on FIG. 6 and discussed above,will typically be part of a separate, looping video file that theApplication will play on the screen of mobile device 140 concurrently asthe audio script file is being played. Thus, there is no need tosynthesize audio and video.

Once synthesis of the new script is complete, the user samples thescript at step 32, modifies it if necessary (such as by returning to oneor more of the steps above), and saves it once satisfied. FIG. 11 showsa sampling screen 510 where the script can be sampled, edited, andsaved. Again, the screen 512 of FIG. 11 may remain blank during play ofthe script, or may show a looping video file, depending on the screendisplay selection. In order to allow a user to form imagery in theirmind based on the audio content of the script, most users will listen toscripts with their eyes closed, either from the beginning of playback orfrom a point somewhere into playback.

We have just explored use of the system application 300 to create a new,fully customized script. However, a user may want to simply use a scriptthey have already created, or use a non-customized script that waspre-recorded for a particular issue they are experiencing and isavailable on database 314 (or on a remote server, available throughwireless connection). Turning to FIG. 5, a process flow is shown where auser again starts by logging in to the system at Step 10, but thenselects to play a pre-existing script at Step 50. In the illustrated,embodiment, the user is then provided with a topical directory to helpnarrow down the list of potentially appropriate script files available.An example of such a directory is shown in FIG. 12. Directory screen1200 has four category options 1201 based on the goal the user seeks toachieve through use of the script. However, it will be understood thatthere could be more or less options, or the options could be topicallydivided based on other script characteristics such as, for example, datecreated, length, reminder content, etc. In other embodiments, the usercould simply be provided with an alphabetical list in a file directoryformat from which they could select a particular script and beginplayback.

At Step 52, a user negotiates the directory to select a particularscript and arrives at a screen such as playback screen 1300 of FIG. 13.Here, the user has selected a script with the saved name “Julie's MondayScript” appearing in the name field 1308. Playback screen 1300 issimilar to the sampling screen of FIG. 11, except that it offers acouple of unique capabilities. First, track bar 1302 is provided at thebottom of the screen. This track bar monitors the progress of the scriptas it plays back and, though not done in typical playback, allows a userto jump into a script at a certain point, such as, for example, toverify its contents at a time prior to or otherwise when not actuallyusing the script to assist with goal achievement. In the case of actualuse by a user that has reached a state of focused attention during useof the script, the track bar allows someone nearby to quickly estimatewhen the user will return to a full state of awareness. The application300 may operate to maintain this track bar on screen, overriding anydefault “screen saver” or “screen hibernate” setting.

Finally, time adjustment module 1310 allows a user to dynamically adjustthe set length of a pre-existing or pre-assembled script just prior toplayback (Step 53). For example, say a pre-existing script that a userwants to hear is at a recorded length of 8 minutes. As shown in theexample of FIG. 13, this length will be displayed when the script isloaded for playback on the playback screen 1300. However, say the useris in a hurry, and wants to play a shortened version of the script. Inthis case, the user can use time adjustment module 1310 to shorten thelength of the script. Alternatively, if the user wishes to experience alonger, slower version of the script, she may lengthen its playbacktime.

If playback time is altered using time adjustment module 1310, theapplication 300 dynamically adjusts the script to conform more closelyto the desired length at Step 54. In a case where a shorter playbacktime is desired, this is done by substituting shorter snippets forlonger ones, removing or reducing the length of pauses where onlyrelaxing music is played, substituting a shorter introduction orreorientation, etc. However, certain elements of the script must remainin place to effectively and safely deliver the message and any reminderscontained therein, so the time adjustment function is limited in itsability to shorten a script. For example, an 8 minutes pre-recordedscript may be able to be dynamically modified to, say 6 minutes. But notto 2 minutes. In the case where a user wishes to extend playback,application 300 performs opposite types of script modification, such as,for example, adding new or longer “music pauses” or “reflection pauses”in where only relaxing music or relaxing word syllables are played,using a longer, slower introduction or reorientation snippet, etc.Though the edited length can be saved as a new script, the originalpre-recorded script is unaffected by the dynamic modification of itslength and playback of the modified version. Once the user has made anyadjustments desired, the script is played by pressing play 1304 at step56.

In some embodiments there may be a “Reorient” button available on thescreen during playback. Because of the application 300's capability fordynamic modification of the script, the reorient button can be selectedby a third party monitoring the user, such as in a case where it isrequired that the user return to a state of alertness quickly. In thismanner, instead of simply interrupting playback abruptly, the thirdparty can allow the Application to alter the playback during use so asto quickly move (skip) to a short but safe and practical reorientationsnippet. In this case, reminders and the message may be truncated or notfully delivered, but the user will exit the script in a more fully awareand prepared state than if simply interrupted.

As a user spends more time operating the self sedation and suggestionsystem, the application 300 will become more accustomed to the user'spreferences that may not be directly collected at preferences screen160. Information about the user may be determined inductively by suchthings as the user's age, sex or other demographics, the type of mobiledevice 140 or other computer the person uses to operate the application300, etc. This material may be stored in database 314 as customerprofile information. In addition, the application 300 may provide anoption for the user to “like” or “dislike” certain scripts or snippetsthat the user comes across during operation of script setup so as tohelp recommend material that will be more favorable to the user. Thisdata may also be stored in association with the customer profile.

While it has been shown how to generate a new script and how to playbackan existing script, it will be understood that the Application 300 alsocan allow for modifying an existing script through a combination of theabove disclosure. For example, a user may start at step 50 and proceedto isolate a particular pre-existing script, but may want to, forwhatever reason, change the voice reading the script. In this case, onceat playback screen 1300, the user could select the modify 1313 button.This would take the user through screens similar to those of FIGS. 6 and9, but where the defaults are set to what already exists in the selectedscript. The user may then alter those pre-set selections (such as, forexample, input a new reminder, or change out the introduction) andreturn to playback using the modified script.

Accordingly, it should now be clear how self sedation and suggestionsystem application 300 can be used to generate truly customized hypnoticscripts. The application does not simply mechanically includepre-recorded selections based on direct user input. Rather, it selectssnippets of pre-recordings that fit an analysis of the user based onindirect questioning and analysis. It can also customize by includingpreferences set by the user, content and even recordings generated bythe user. Any order or process descriptions or input selections in thefigures should be understood as representing modules, segments, orportions of code which include one or more executable instructions forimplementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, andalternate implementations are included within the scope of theembodiments of the present invention in which functions may be executedout of order from that shown or discussed, including substantiallyconcurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionalityinvolved, as would be understood by those having ordinary skill in theart.

It should be emphasized that the above-described exemplary embodimentsof the present invention, and particularly any “preferred” embodiments,are possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clearunderstanding of the principles of the invention. Many other variationsand modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments of theinvention without substantially departing from the spirit and principlesof the invention. All such modifications are intended to be includedherein within the scope of this disclosure and the present invention andprotected by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of electronically modifying apre-existing hypnotic script media file for use in self-sedation of auser, comprising the steps of: receiving to a processor through a userinterface of a software application resident on a mobile device of theuser a first user input defining a selection of the pre-existinghypnotic script media file, wherein the pre-existing hypnotic scriptmedia file is comprised of a plurality of pre-recorded snippets thatcollectively have a first total play time; receiving to the processorthrough the user interface a second user input defining a second totalplay time different than the first total play time; and modifying, usingthe processor, the first total play time of the pre-existing hypnoticscript media file to be closer to the second total play time, themodifying including automated selection and insertion into the hypnoticscript media file by the software application at least one snippet notpreviously included in the plurality of pre-recorded snippets.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the automated selection is based on responsesreceived through the user interface to style analysis questions
 3. Themethod of claim 2, wherein the responses to the style analysis questionsare not direct selections of features desired to be in the hypnoticscript media file.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the pre-existinghypnotic script media file comprises an introduction, a message portion,and a reorientation portion.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein themessage portion contains at least one snippet recorded by a user.
 6. Themethod of claim 4, further comprising the step of, during playback ofthe hypnotic script media file by the processor, receiving a request torapidly end playback and, in response thereto, transitioning to playbackof the reorientation portion.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein thetransitioning comprises dynamic modification of the hypnotic mediascript file.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of theplurality of snippets comprises a video component such that, when thepre-recorded hypnotic script media file is played by the mobile device,an image is displayed on a display screen of the mobile device.
 9. Themethod of claim 8, further comprising displaying, on a display screen ofthe mobile device, a plurality of user-selectable options correspondingto pre-existing hypnotic script media files, the first user inputcorresponding to user selection of one of the displayed options.
 10. Aself sedation and suggestion system, comprising: an input component forreceiving inputs from a user, including: a first user input defining aselection of a pre-existing hypnotic script media file, wherein thepre-existing hypnotic script media file is comprised of a plurality ofpre-recorded snippets that collectively have a first total play time,and a second user input defining a second total play time different thanthe first total play time; a processor in connection with the inputcomponent and configured to modify the pre-existing hypnotic scriptmedia file based on the second user input; a memory in connection withthe processor; and a time-adjustment module stored in the memory anddirecting the processor to modify the first total play time of thepre-existing hypnotic script media file to be closer to the second totalplay time by selecting and replacing at least one of the plurality ofpre-recorded snippets that comprise the pre-existing hypnotic scriptmedia file with a replacement snippet.
 11. The system of claim 10,wherein the replacement snippet is an audio clip submitted by the user.12. The system of claim 10, further comprising an audio recorder forcapturing verbal inputs from a user, and wherein at least one of theplurality of pre-recorded snippets is a recording of a verbal input fromthe user submitted through the audio recorder.
 13. The system of claim10, wherein the selecting and replacing of the at least one of theplurality of pre-recorded snippets is based, at least in part, on anindirect style analysis wherein the user supplies answers to questionsnot directly related to the pre-recorded hypnotic script.
 14. The systemof claim 10, wherein the time-adjustment module modifies the first totalplay time by replacing at least one of the plurality of pre-recordedsnippets with at least one snippet not previously in the plurality ofpre-recorded snippets.
 15. The system of claim 10, further comprising anoutput component capable of displaying a plurality of user-selectableoptions representing pre-existing hypnotic script media files, the firstuser input corresponding to user selection of one of the displayedoptions.
 16. The system of claim 10, further comprising a reorientationmodule that dynamically modifies the length of the audio script duringplayback.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the audio script comprisesan introduction portion, a message portion, and a reorientation portion,the system further comprising a reorientation module that shortens theplayback time by removing snippets from the message portion duringplayback